When parents separate or divorce in Illinois, the court may issue a temporary custody order. These orders are designed to provide a short-term arrangement for parenting time and decision making while a final custody agreement is still being worked out. Below is some...
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Libertyville Family Law Blog
4 significant changes in circumstances for support modification
Child support orders are designed to reflect the financial needs of children and the ability of parents to contribute. However, life circumstances can shift in ways that require a new look at an existing support arrangement. Courts allow either parent or a guardian to...
What leads to the involuntary termination of parental rights?
Involuntary termination of parental rights is a serious legal action that permanently ends the relationship between a parent and a child. Courts take this step only when the evidence shows that doing so is in the best interests of the child and that specific legal...
What happens if parents cannot settle on a custody agreement?
When parents divorce, one of the family matters that must be discussed is child custody. Parents can create a custody agreement that decides on each parent’s legal rights and obligations toward their children, including custody days and child care. However, parents...
What is the purpose of a QDRO when couples divorce?
Divorce proceedings typically require a number of different types of documents. Spouses have to file petitions with the court to initiate the divorce process. They may have to submit documents disclosing their resources and debts. They may even need to work with a...
Considering birdnesting for child custody
Child custody arrangements can be complex. Often, they’re a bit disruptive for children. Even if parents share time perfectly evenly, the children still have to move back and forth between two new homes, so it’s quite an adjustment. One thing to consider to get around...
When and how can child support payments be adjusted?
Illinois courts get understand that life changes, which is why child support isn’t set in stone. Maybe you lost your job or your ex got a big raise. Perhaps your child’s needs have changed due to medical issues or school expenses. Whatever the reason, you may adjust...
Setting expectations for a child’s screen usage between households
Setting consistent expectations for a child’s screen usage between households can be challenging in co-parenting situations. As screens become an increasingly central part of daily life—whether for education, entertainment or communication—it’s important for divorced...
Are there residency requirements for a divorce in Illinois?
Different states have very different divorce laws. People who move between states need to know how these laws are going to apply. They don’t necessarily have to apply for divorce in the same state where they got married, but they do need to know how living in a new...
Good faith reasons for relocation with kids after divorce
We have recently discussed some of the issues with relocating after a divorce. It can have an impact on child custody arrangements. Co-parents need to communicate effectively about any sort of move or relocation, striving to put their child first. In some cases, a...